Factoring Difference of Squares

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factorization pattern that states: a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

Factor x² - 25.

Back

(x + 5)(x - 5)

Front

Factor x² - 16.

Back

(x + 4)(x - 4)

Front

Factor 36x² - 64.

Back

4(3x - 4)(3x + 4)

Front

Factor x² - 144 completely.

Back

(x + 12)(x - 12)

Front

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Back

Look for the GCF (Greatest Common Factor).

Front

What does GCF stand for?

Back

GCF stands for Greatest Common Factor, the largest factor that divides two or more numbers.

Front

How do you identify a difference of squares?

Back

A difference of squares can be identified if the expression is in the form a² - b².

Front

Factor 49x² - 1.

Back

(7x + 1)(7x - 1)

Front

Factor x² - 9.

Back

(x + 3)(x - 3)